Abstract
Recent 40Ar/39Ar work reveals that the Bend in the Hawaiian–Emperor Chain (HEB) occurred at 50 Ma, not at 43 Ma, as postulated over 30 years ago. All relevant argon data for seamounts in the Hawaiian–Emperor Chain have been evaluated for statistical validity, as well as for accuracy, based on the freshness of the phases dated. The Pacific Plate motion decreased steadily from ∼65 to ∼35 Ma. No marked change in the rate of plate motion occurred at the time of the Bend. Hypotheses pertaining to the formation of the Hawaiian–Emperor Chain must (1) be based on radio metric data that have been critically evaluated and (2) explain both the geometry and timing of various features, such as the HEB.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call